HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-19-2020 P&R Commission Packet
Agenda
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
TELECONFERENCE MEETING NOTICE
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
7:00 p.m.
Welcome to the Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission. If this is your first time, the
following is a general outline of our procedures:
Please note that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, this meeting is teleconference only, and will be conducted
pursuant to the provisions of the Governor’s Executive Order N29-20 issued on March 17, 2020 allowing
for deviation of teleconference rules required by the Brown Act and pursuant to the Order of the Health
Officer of San Mateo County dated March 31, 2020.
The public may view or comment during this meeting from a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/185577533
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You can also dial in using your phone:
United States (Toll Free): 1 877 568 4106
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Access Code: 185-577-533
The purpose of conducting the meeting as described in this notice is to provide the safest environment for
staff and the public while allowing for public participation.
Commissioners Aires, Battaglia, DeNardi, Firpo, and Lock, and Vice Chair Uy and Chair Camacho and
essential City staff will participate via Teleconference. Members of the public may submit their comments on
any agenda item or public comment via email or Parks & Recreation main line.
PURSUANT TO RALPH M. BROWN ACT, GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54953, ALL VOTES SHALL
BE BY ROLL CALL DUE TO COUNCIL MEMBERS PARTICIPATING BY TELECONFERENCE.
In accordance with California Government Code Section 54957.5, any writing or document that is a public
record, relates to an open session agenda item, and is distributed less than 72 hours prior to a regular
meeting will be made available for public inspection at the Parks and Recreation Department in the
Municipal Services Building. If, however, the document or writing is not distributed until the regular meeting
to which it relates, then the document or writing will be made available to the public at the location of the
meeting, as listed on this agenda.
Public Comment:
Please note that dialing in will only allow you to listen in on the meeting. To make a public comment during
the GoToMeeting session, join the meeting from your computer or mobile device, enter your name, and
request to comment through the “Chat” function and a staff person will add you to the queue for comments
and unmute your microphone during the comment period. In the alternative, you may also provide email
comments received during the meeting will be read into the record. Please be sure to indicate the Agenda
item number you wish to address or the topic of your public comment. California law prevents the
Commission from taking action on any item not on the Agenda (except in emergency circumstances). Your
question or problem may be referred to staff for investigation and/or action where appropriate or the matter
may be placed on a future Agenda for more comprehensive action or report.
COMMENTS ARE LIMITED TO THREE (3) MINUTES PER SPEAKER. Thank you for your cooperation.
Remote Public Comments:
Members of the public wishing to participate are encouraged to submit public comments in writing
in advance of the meeting. The email and phone line below will be monitored during the meeting
and public comments received will be read into the record. The City encourages the submission
of comments by 6:00pm on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, to facilitate inclusion in the meeting record. A
maximum of 3 minutes per individual comment will be read into the record. Comments that are not
in compliance the Commission’s rules of decorum may be summarized for the record rather than
read verbatim.
Email: [email protected]
Electronic Comments received by email will be monitored during the meeting and read into the
record. We ask that you limit your electronic comments so that they comply with the 3 minute time
limitation for public comment.
Parks & Recreation Hotline: (650) 829-3837
Voice messages will be monitored during the meeting, and read into the record. Your voicemail
should be limited so that it complies with the 3 minute time limitation for public comment.
If you have special questions, please contact the Director of Parks and Recreation. The Director will be
pleased to answer your questions when the Commission is not in session.
KRISTY CAMACHO
CHAIRPERSON
ROBERT UY BETTY BATTAGLIA
VICE CHAIR COMMISSIONER
WILLIAM LOCK MICHAEL AIRES
SECRETARY COMMISSIONER
RUTH DeNARDI STEPHEN FIRPO
COMMISSIONER COMMISSIONER
SHARON RANALS
ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER/ DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
GREG MEDIATI
DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Agenda
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING Teleconference Meeting Tuesday, May 19, 2020
7:00 p.m.
A G E N D A I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call III. Pledge of Allegiance IV. Agenda Review V. Approval of Minutes of the February 18, 2020, Meeting VI. Citizen Participation (Citizen comment on items not agendized/informational only)
VII. Beautification Committee VIII. Old Business A. Civic Campus Playground Update IX. New Business A. COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update
B. Fiscal Implications Related to COVID-19 X. Friends of Parks and Recreation XI. Items from Commission XII. Items from Staff A. Calendar of Events
B. Administrative Update XIII. Adjournment Next Meeting:
Regular Meeting: Tuesday, June 16, 2020
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES FROM TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020
I. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. A regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of South San Francisco was held on Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at the Municipal Services Building, 33
Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, California.
II. ROLL CALL: Present: Commissioners Battaglia, Camacho, DeNardi, Firpo, Lock, and Uy
Absent: All Present
Staff: Sharon Ranals, ACM/Director of Parks and Recreation Greg Mediati, Deputy Director Angela Duldulao, Recreation Manager
Laura Armanino, Childcare Supervisor
Kimberly Morrison, Childcare Assistant Supervisor Kari Jung, Administrative Assistant III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Complete
IV. AGENDA REVIEW: No changes.
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 21, 2020, MEETING: No changes and approved by motion as written. Motion: Commissioner Battaglia / Seconded: Commissioner
DeNardi. VI. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: None
VII. BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE
Deputy Director Mediati reported that a February Beautification Committee Meeting was not held. VIII. OLD BUSINESS: A. Urban Forest Master Plan Update
Deputy Director Mediati shared the updated UFMP included with the packets was informational only, has had a few minor formatting changes completed, has incorporated many of the Commissioner’s previous comments, and was now ready to be presented to City Council for adoption.
• Goals have been prioritized in a matrix on page 62, ranked high, medium, and
low.
• A tree species list is included at the very end of the report.
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2020
Page 2
Commissioner Firpo inquired if the Catalina Cherry produced any fruit and Deputy Mediati explained that the fruit produced is not very tasty, containing a large pit and not very meaty.
Commissioner Lock inquired if the report addressed aging equipment and staffing levels. Deputy Mediati shared that the report makes recommendations for best practices; however staffing levels and equipment replacement falls to Department to address as part of future budget requests. Commissioner Lock further inquired if
it would be better to state those items overtly in the report. ACM Ranals explained
that setting priorities was a better approach to more flexibly reach goals. Deputy Mediati shared that it isn’t within the consultant’s area of expertise to dictate staffing levels and make business recommendations; however they gave recommendations of pruning cycles and service levels for staff to determine staffing
levels needed to achieve goals.
Commissioner DeNardi shared that she attended the Sign Hill Stewards event the previous Wednesday and noticed a lot of dead trees as well as small pine trees coming up and was wondering if the volunteers can assist with the removal of these
small pine trees. Deputy Mediati acknowledged that there will be some tree removal
near the water tanks where a lot of the dead trees are, as well as Josh and Emma will be working to remove some of the eucalyptus. Sign Hill not naturally forested – reference document is a forestry study of Sign Hill with best practices for fire breaks. DeNardi reported a tree covering the “S”.
Commissioner Battaglia shared that the trees on Sign Hill were planted in good faith; however, times have changed. She inquired if the City gets a lot of comments about removal. When eucalyptus trees were removed from Brentwood Park there were a lot of complaints. ACM Ranals stated that the removal of trees is
controversial; although the lifespan of eucalyptus is 250 years and there is environmental benefit. Commissioner Camacho thanked staff for updating the goals which makes the plan more useful, further inquiring if timeframes can be added or check-ins on action
items, for instance if Design Review Board incorporating Parks in the review process. Minor edit: Page 15 – remove quotation marks on Mission Statement, only use quotation marks for actual quotes. Commissioner Uy thanked staff for the well done report. He shared his
interpretation of an overwhelming theme of not removing trees and wanted further explanation about non-native trees: eucalyptus which have shorter lifespan, prone to fall damage, and much more flammable. Deputy Mediati shared that there was a prioritization for removal to allow for fire breaks, and that trees were reviewed individually rather than by species. The Department has a tomograph and does
borings to test for resistance and quantify the overall health of each tree. ACM Ranals further explained that the City’s tree removal ordinance was written so that it is easier to remove some species of trees, like the eucalyptus.
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2020
Page 3
Commissioner Uy shared that Monte Verde (part in San Bruno) trees have fallen, are a danger in high wind events, and he has concerns that same species close to playground at Orange Park. Deputy Mediati shared that in considering the risk
assessment of trees, the value of any target (people are highest value) is taken into
consideration. ACM Ranals shared that 4 or 5 have been removed in correlation with the Stormwater Capture project and additional are under consideration. Deputy Mediati shared that climate change is causing more severe wind storm events causing more trees to topple.
Commissioner Firpo shared his concerns regarding the pine trees on Sign Hill due to lack of water and beetles and that the fire break is a great idea. IX. New Business:
A. Preschool Study Session and Waiting List Survey
Laura Armanino, Childcare Supervisor shared a presentation with the commission that had been shared with City Council at their recent retreat. Supervisor Armanino requested feedback from the Commission on the survey questions for future use to ensure that we are asking the right questions and therefore getting the answers
needed.
Commissioner Uy inquired about demographics. Supervisor Armanino shared that demographic questions are included as optional to answer.
Supervisor Armanino shared that the Big Lift program is struggling to fill spaces due to the low income requirements and that medium income / affordable spaces are more difficult to find. Commissioner Lock expressed that with the substantial waiting list and limited
facilities the Orange Library site is appealing for a future childcare facility and wondered what synergies would be lost if not located next to an elementary school. Supervisor Armanino shared that many of our preschools are not adjacent to elementary schools and that library location is within the heat map. Commissioner Lock requested to add a question if not walking to school, how are they getting to
school, and what are the transportation expectations. How long would it take to get the library conversion complete, 10 years? ACM Ranals shared that LPR was scheduled to be complete at the end of 2022, and if approved another 18 months for construction, so it could be running within 5 years. A study City Council session will be planned to discuss potential future plans.
Commissioner Firpo inquired what current weekly rates are. Supervisor Armanino shared that full time preschool is currently $652 for residents and $729 for non-residents.
Commissioner Uy estimated that childcare ranges from $2,400-$3,000 per month per child.
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2020
Page 4
ACM Ranals shared that there is currently $11 million in the Childcare Impact Fund with the expectation to spend sooner rather than later so that developers don’t come back requesting the return of fees. The questions to consider:
• What can be done in the interim?
• Are there any City owned buildings or sites that can be utilized with modular units?
• How do we balance services offered? Commissioner Camacho inquired if the costs are available for the Orange Library site. Supervisor Armanino shared that the estimate is $7.7 million for 80 children (4 classes of 20 each with large multi-purpose room) within the existing floor plan. The
basement is ruled out for childcare, but could be used for city-wide storage needs. ACM Ranals shared that there are two other estimates as well:
• Tear down and rebuild is estimated at $37 million for 200 kids
• Tear down and utilization of modular buildings at $15 million for 150 kids
Commissioner Camacho suggested the following updates to the survey:
• Include care in home by self as an option
• Question 2 – get rid of 1st sentence, ask Are the City’s preschool programs
your 1st choice and why
• Question 3 – want to know more than just quality: long term teachers, socialization, kindergarten readiness
• Question 4 – consider ranking choices, and then move above question 2
• Change cost to either annual or weekly, not percent of income; request family income as an optional response
• Question 6 is leading – How strongly do you agree with the following
statement with a Likert scale response
• The map may be difficult to read if you are not involved in the City. Separate out by district
• Question 8 – use same map, callout neighborhoods X. Friends of Parks and Recreation: Commissioner Battaglia shared that the committee elected officers and discussed programs to support in the upcoming year: Easter Egg Hunt and City Hall Celebration.
Manager Duldulao shared that the Friends of Parks and Recreation recently made a donation in the over $6,000 including:
• $1,800 Traditional camp scholarships
• $1,500 Full of Fun camp scholarships
• $ 500 July is Parks and Rec Month free classes
• $2,500 for Senior Programs and Adult Day Care Scholarships
• $ 500 for Aquatics Summer Safety Swim programming
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2020
Page 5
XI. Items from Commission: Commissioner DeNardi shared that she attended the Special City Council Meeting
reviewing the designs from the urban art program, an affordable housing meeting, and the
Sign Hill Stewards event pulling Italian thistle. She mentioned that she noticed young adults walking along Grand Ave, wearing vests, picking up litter as well as over by Orange Park picking up litter. It’s wonderful to see people in our community volunteering to improve the City.
Commissioner Lock was pleased to share that CAPRCBM will honor Richard Holt with the President’s award in March. There won’t be a dinner, just the ceremony on Thursday evening. He further inquired if the City had a volunteer recognition. ACM Ranals said that some volunteers are acknowledged at Council meetings and others are at the Senior
Volunteer Luncheon. Commissioner Camacho suggested acknowledging volunteers in the
activity guide. Commissioner Lock encouraged that staff and commissioners can take photos on their cell phones and submit. Commissioner Uy attended the Chamber Mixer at the Library which was well attended. The
Civic Campus presentation was well received.
Commissioner Firpo thanked staff for the acknowledgement and nomination for Richard Holt and found the UFMP very comprehensive.
Commissioner Battaglia enjoyed reviewing the history of trees in parks, noting that the palm trees are were planted in honor of the veterans. She attended the Chamber Mixer, Valentines for Troops with the Seniors, Chinese New Year Dance, PAL boosters dinner, CAC Art Show, Rotary, and looks forward to CPRS District IV dinner.
Commissioner Camacho shared that she is unable to attend the CPRS District 4 awards dinner due to a previous commitment, but extended her congratulations to the nominees. She will attend the CPRS conference in Long Beach. XII. Items from Staff:
A. Calendar of Events. ACM Ranals shared that the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the new Police Station and 911 Dispatch Building is scheduled for Friday, 2/28 at 10:00 a.m. Invitation are forthcoming. Please park at the MSB and walk over.
B. Administrative Updates ACM Ranals shared that a new commissioner has been appointed, but she is holding off on making the announcement until all notifications have been made. XIII. Adjournment: 8:11 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Kari Jung, Administrative Assistant II
Staff Report
DATE: May 19, 2020
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Director of Capital Projects SUBJECT: Civic Campus Playground Alternatives RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive a report on the design of the playground at the Civic Campus. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
As a central component of the Community Civic Campus project, the 1.3 acre park includes plans for a future playground. The playground is not currently not funded within the overall project budget. In December 2019, staff presented to the Commission designs based on two different themes for the playground: Technology /Innovation and Nature/Adventure. Since that time, staff and the
landscape architecture team from SmithGroup have gathered feedback and revised the design to
incorporate elements from both themes. The presentation includes a detailed explanation of the revised plan.
By: _______________________________ Jacob Gilchrist Director of Capital Projects
Attachments: 1. Draft Presentation
PARKS AND REC COMMISSION MEETING –MAY 19,2020
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
MAIN CAMPUS | PROJECT UPDATE
EXTERIOR DESIGN
PLAYGROUND UPDATE
PLAYGROUND DESIGN | OVERALL PARK DESIGN
DECEMBER 2019 PLAYGROUND CONCEPTS
CONCEPT 1 –TECHNOLOGY / INNOVATION CONCEPT 2 –NATURE / ADVENTURE
PLAYGROUND SURVEY –WHAT WE HEARD
Overall Preference
= NATURE!
Nature / Adventure
Technology / Innovation
67%
33%
401
RESPONSES
JANUARY-
APRIL
TYPES OF PLAY
1.MOVEMENT
2.INCLUSIVE
3.ADVENTURE
4.EDUCATIONAL
PLAY EQUIPMENT
1.CLIMBING
2.SLIDES
3.SWINGS
4.BALANCING ELEMENTS
GENERAL FEEDBACK [162 WRITE-IN COMMENTS]
•NO SAND
•NEED PLENTY OF SEATING FOR ADULTS AND GOOD VISIBILITY
•NEED SHADE/RAIN COVERING
•NEEDS TO BE ACCESSIBLE AND SECURE
•ENCLOSED AREA FOR2-5 YEAROLDS
•NEED SWINGS FOR 2-5 AND 5-12 YEAR OLDS
•NEEDS TO BE INCLUSIVE
•INTEGRATION OF NATURE AND TECHNOLOGY CONCEPTS
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
BIRD’S EYE VIEW
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
6 MONTHS -5 YEARS OLD AREA
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
6 –23 MONTHS OLD PLAY STRUCTURE
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
6 MONTHS -5 YEARS OLD AREA
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
PLAY EQUIPMENT SAFETY ZONES
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
5-12 YEARS OLD AREA
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
PERIMETER FENCE AND SEATING DESIGN
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
VIEW FROM TURF AREA AND SHADE STRUCTURE DESIGN
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
VIEW FROM 3RD FLOOR LOBBY
Staff Report
DATE: May 19, 2020
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive an update on the current status
of modified operations under the San Mateo County Health Officer COVID-19 Shelter in Place
Order, and review the attached plan to gradually restore Parks and Recreation operations and
programs as restrictions are eased by the County Health Officer.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
A novel coronavirus, named “COVID-19” by the World Health Organization (WHO), was first
detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019. The virus has since spread
rapidly throughout the world. The WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, when there
were 118,000 confirmed cases and 4,000 deaths in over 110 countries. As of May 14, there have
been 4.5 million confirmed cases, with over 300,000 deaths across 213 countries. Meanwhile, in
San Mateo County, there are 1,536 confirmed cases, with 65 deaths. Because of limited testing
capacity, the number of cases detected through testing represents only a small portion of the total
number of likely cases.
In early March of 2020, national, state, county, and local governments declared health emergencies
for COVID-19 to confer special authority and leverage resources to address the crisis, as follows:
United States, March 13; California, March 4; San Mateo County, March 10; and City of South San
Francisco, March 11.
In an effort to slow the spread of the virus and mitigate the impact on delivery of critical healthcare
services, California issued an Executive Order that went into effect on March 19, directing all
individuals living in the State of California to stay at their place of residence, except as needed to
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 2
maintain continuity of operations in the “federal critical infrastructure sectors.”
San Mateo County Health Officer Orders
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, San Mateo County issued a series of Health Officer Orders
for public health and safety. Prior to issuing a Shelter in Place (SIP) Order, initially effective from
March 16 to April 7, orders were issued to ban visitors from skilled nursing facilities, to ban mass
gatherings, and to modify school operations.
Subsequent to the SIP Order announcement, additional orders were issued, which included
modifications related to the reporting of test results, extension of the SIP through May 3, home
quarantine and home isolation instructions, further revisions to school operations, expansion of
screening and monitoring for residential care facilities; face coverings requirement for members of
the public and workers, large construction project safety protocol, small construction project safety
protocol, specific social distancing protocols for businesses allowed to operate under the SIP Order,
and most recently, an order issued on April 29 which slightly relaxes the SIP Order of March 31,
and extends it to May 31. This revised order was issued in light of progress achieved in slowing the
spread of the virus in San Mateo County and neighboring counties. The revised order states that
activities will be assessed on an ongoing basis and may need to be modified if the risk associated
with the virus increases in the future.
An additional revised order is slated to be announced on May 18. Staff will verbally report on this,
as it has not been published at the time of drafting this report.
Recreation Division Operations
Existing Modified Recreation Programs
In response to San Mateo County’s guidance to cancel or postpone in-person gatherings to limit the
spread of COVID-19 within the County, the City has postponed, cancelled or modified recreation
programs and events and has temporarily closed facilities. While these programs may be cancelled,
the City generously pledged to pay hourly staff based on their average hours worked through the
end of the fiscal year – June 30, 2020.
Below is a brief summary of program modifications and cancellations.
Special Events
• All special events during the current shelter in place order have been cancelled or postponed.
Some examples include:
- Easter Egg Hunt, April 4
- Cultural Arts Commission Youth Art Show, April 3-4
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 3
- Youth Karate Tournament, April 26
- Preschool Graduation, May 15
- Senior Pancake Breakfast, May 17
Aquatics
• Orange Pool was closed and the following Aquatics programs are cancelled until further notice,
effective March 12:
- Spring classes and drop-in aquatics programs
- SSF Aquatics Club practices
• Summer session programs are currently postponed
Childcare
• The following Childcare programs are cancelled or postponed until further notice, effective
March 12:
- Youth Police Academy
- Fire Firefighter Camp
- Full of Fun Nights
- Spring Camp
• The following Childcare programs are cancelled or postponed until further notice, effective
March 16:
- Preschool programs at Little Steps Preschool, Siebecker Center, and
Westborough Recreation Building
- Before and After School Recreation Programs at Buri Buri, Monte Verde, Ponderosa, and
Spruce Elementary Schools were closed in parallel with the SSFUSD school closures
- R.E.A.L. After School Programs at Martin and Los Cerritos Elementary Schools were
closed in parallel with the SSFUSD school closures
• Summer Camp enrollment has still been collected. Staff is considering a modified summer camp
program to begin in June, which will be described in more detail, below.
• Before and After School Recreation Program registration was accepted via an online lottery
process between April 13-24.
Classes
• All spring drop-in programs and classes were cancelled effective March 12
• Summer session classes are currently postponed
Rentals
• All private rentals of City facilities, picnic areas, and sports fields were cancelled until further
notice, effective March 12
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 4
Senior Services
• The Magnolia Center and the following Senior Services programs are cancelled or postponed
until further notice, effective March 12.
- Adult day care
- All drop-in senior programs at the Magnolia Center and the Municipal Services Building
- Senior luncheons and events
- AARP’s tax program
Sports
• The Terrabay Gymnasium and the following Sports programs are cancelled until further notice,
effective March 12.
- Adult sports programs
- Middle school sports
- RAPP basketball
- Open gym
- Fitness room activities
• Junior Giants was modified to include an online spring program from May 11 - June 6, and two summer sessions from June 8 - July 4 and July 6 - August 1
• Co-sponsored sports leagues have been postponed until further notice
Planned Modified Childcare Programs During the Shelter In Place
Staff is in the process planning childcare services for essential workers, potentially beginning
Monday, June 15. The scope of services to be proposed for City Council consideration includes
serving:
• 60 children using existing facilities at Westborough Preschool, Siebecker Preschool, and Little
Steps Preschool.
• 120 children in existing summer camp facilities at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building,
Terrabay Gymnasium, and Ponderosa Elementary School.
The cost of these programs will be covered by the Department’s existing operating budget. If
necessary, the South San Francisco Unified School District will allow the use of the City’s before
and after school program facilities at Monte Verde and Buri Buri Elementary Schools.
Survey Data
On May 6, staff issued a survey to currently enrolled participants in the City’s preschool and summer
camp programs, as well as waitlisted participants in summer camp, to assess the need and interest
for participants to return to the program. As of May 14, the results are as follows:
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 5
Preschool – Enrolled 71 respondents
Plan to attend AND meet “essential worker” status identified in
April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
48%
Plan to attend, but DOES NOT meet “essential worker” status
identified in April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
23%
Do not plan to attend or not sure 29%
Summer Camp & Teen Camp – Enrolled 230 respondents
Plan to attend AND meet “essential worker” status identified in
April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
53%
Plan to attend, but DOES NOT meet “essential worker” status
identified in April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
18%
Do not plan to attend or not sure 29%
Summer Camp & Teen Camp – Waitlisted 70 respondents
Plan to attend AND meet “essential worker” status identified in
April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
53%
Plan to attend, but DOES NOT meet “essential worker” status
identified in April 29, 2020 SMC public health order
21%
Do not plan to attend or not sure 26%
Responses from City employees who are already enrolled in the Childcare Program is included
above. The City’s Human Resources Department will be sending out a separate survey to City
employees who are not currently enrolled in the program to gauge employees’ need for childcare
services if required to return to work as well.
Guidelines for Childcare During Shelter In Place
The following framework for safely operating childcare programs in South San Francisco has been
crafted by staff based on several public health resources and input from agencies who are providing
childcare services for essential workers. These guidelines are subject to change based on regulations
and guidance from Community Care Licensing and the San Mateo County Public Health
Department.
Childcare facilities will operate and comply with the following conditions to the extent possible:
• Children must be cared for in stable groups of 12 or fewer.
• Groups of children may not mix with each other. If more than one group is cared for at one
facility, each group shall be in a separate room.
• Staff may not circulate between groups. They need to remain with the same stable group of 12
children.
• Common areas may be shared by multiple groups however, their use of these areas should be
staggered as much as possible so as to minimize contact with each other.
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 6
• Upon arriving at the facility, staff will greet parents and children outside of the classroom to
limit non-essential individuals from entering the classroom. Daily temperatures and symptom
questionnaires are to be performed prior to entry.
• Toys from home are not allowed.
• Toys/equipment with hard cleanable surfaces will be provided when possible.
• Staff will check their temperature daily and monitor for cough or shortness of breath, via a
symptom check questionnaire. They are mandated to stay home if they are or have been ill.
• All children who display symptoms will be sent home. While awaiting pick up, they will be
separated from other children. The same procedure will be followed for staff.
• Staff will perform enhanced cleaning by routinely disinfecting frequently touched surfaces (e.g.
doorknobs, light switches, countertops, faucets). Sites will be cleaned each evening.
In addition to the framework identified above, staff has developed policies for identifying and
isolating sick children, and scenarios if a child or employee tests positive for COVID-19.
Virtual Recreation Programs
During these challenging times, the Department is still committed to providing fun, educational, and
recreational resources for community members of all ages. In an effort to continue to meet this need,
staff has created an online recreation and classroom environment, titled the Virtual Recreation and
Resource Center, available at www.ssf.net/virtualrec. In addition to sourcing 160 online educational
and recreation resources for residents, the Department is creating and sharing pre-recorded
instructional videos, and is hosting virtual recreation classes via GoToMeeting video conferencing
software. These classes include knitting, crocheting, hula dancing, belly dancing, ballet, tabata
bootcamp, and pilates free of charge to the community. Additional classes are planned.
At the same time, Childcare staff are still serving Preschool, R.E.A.L. and Before and Afterschool
Program participants remotely. Over 600 children have been provided academic and distance
learning support via the Seesaw software program. Staff has also distributed 200 distance learning
packets for students enrolled in Title 1 schools through its ASES-funded R.E.A.L. program. These
learning packets provide STEM, English language and other fun learning activities to reduce
summer learning loss.
Remote Programs for Seniors and In-Need Individuals
Senior Services staff have established a fresh grocery delivery program for homebound seniors,
funded by private donations. Additionally, Senior Services staff, in partnership with Second Harvest
Food Bank, serves up to 500 South San Francisco senior citizens each week with delivered groceries,
intended to last 1-2 weeks per delivery.
While unable to offer on-site Adult Day Care and Senior Center programs due to the Shelter in Place
order, Parks and Recreation staff created a senior newsletter, which was distributed in print to over
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 7
250 seniors and posted online. Staff is also calling up to 200 seniors per week for welfare checks,
socialization, and information and referral, and is producing activity kits for Adult Day Care clients.
Masks for Seniors and Essential Workers
Over 400 high-quality reusable cloth masks have been crafted by Sewing Instructor Judy Barreto
and Childcare Supervisor Laura Armanino. These masks have been distributed to essential workers,
including Parks and Facility Maintenance Workers, Public Works staff, and senior residents. This
has been invaluable, particularly as masks have been difficult to source as staff begins to resume
essential maintenance and public safety activities.
Emergency Operations Center
Several Parks and Recreation staff have been partially reassigned to serve in the City’s Emergency
Operations Center (EOC). Staff assignments include section leaders and support staff for the care
and shelter, and logistics/documentation units. These roles are essential for disaster relief
reimbursement through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Parks and Facilities Divisions
In response to the ongoing public health crisis, all playgrounds, picnic facilities, park restrooms,
sports courts, the dog park, skate park, and bocce courts have been closed to the public to discourage
gatherings where individuals do not maintain appropriate social distancing. Signage has been posted
at each location. Additionally, staff is locking or caution-taping off these amenities whenever
possible. All drinking fountains have been turned off. Staff continues to monitor park usage, and
may consider expanding closures as necessary.
The Parks and Facilities Divisions reduced staffing by 50% during the week of March 16. Upon
reassessment, the Division has decided to further reduce staffing to 25% staff on hand at any time
to maintain minimum safety standards during the week of March 23, which greatly reduced the
Department’s capacity to respond to regular maintenance needs, and increased the level of deferred
maintenance.
The Parks and Facilities Maintenance Divisions were restored to full staffing on May 13 in order to
prepare facilities for re-entry, weed abatement efforts, and to address the growing maintenance
backlog. Staff is implementing several new operational practices that encourage physical distancing,
hygiene and sanitization of workspaces and equipment, including daily symptom screening,
provisions for personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning supplies, modified shifts, and
physical distancing in common areas, work areas and vehicles.
Thousands of residents are safely accommodated each day by the Parks and Recreation Department
in City parks and public spaces due to the enhanced cleaning and maintenance performed by the
Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: May 19, 2020 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 8
Parks and Recreation Department.
Restoration of Operations Plan
Staff devised a Restoration of Operations Plan (ROOP) to serve as a guiding document for restoring
services and staffing that are affected by the COVID-19 Shelter-in Place Order. Restoration of
services is to be implemented in phases that will accommodate a gradual transition back to full
operation. The phases and plan identified in this plan are in part guided by the Federal guidelines
for “Opening Up America.” A copy of this plan is attached to this staff report for the Commission’s
information. Staff may deviate from this guidance based on recommendations from the San Mateo
County Health Officer, or other experts.
Staff is continuing to evaluate program modifications to safely restore programs based on County
guidance and the ROOP, such as hosting additional classes outdoors, reducing shared equipment,
and practicing in smaller groups to promote physical distancing.
By:
Greg Mediati Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
1
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
RESTORATION OF OPERATIONS PLAN
April 24, 2020
The Parks and Recreation Department’s Restoration of Operations Plan (ROOP)
establishes guidelines for restoring services and staffing that were affected by the
COVID-19 Shelter-in Place Public Order. Restoration of services can be implemented
in phases that will accommodate a gradual transition back to full operation. The phases
and plan identified below are in part guided by the Federal guidelines for “Opening Up
America.”
RECREATION DIVISION
The Recreation Division consists of seven program areas, including Aquatics, Classes,
Cultural Arts, Childcare, Senior Services, Sports and Rentals. Other programs managed
by the Recreation Division include departmental Special Events and Administration.
Recreation staff are also tasked with operating recreation centers, picnic sites and
rental facilities, preschools and select SSFUSD after school sites that serve residents of
all age groups. These programs generally involve a great deal of public interaction,
which must be limited during COVID-19 modified operations.
Full Restrictions
Under full restrictions, recreation facilities and programs are closed to the public and
front counter operations take place only by phone or e-mail. The only program that
would be open to the public is if the City decided to provide childcare services to
essential workers, as defined by San Mateo County. Recreation administrative staff
(Manager, Supervisors, Coordinators, Administrative Assistants, and Cultural Arts
Specialist) would be expected to work from home and would only be allowed to work
from the office on an as-needed basis with supervisor approval.
Personnel:
Recreation administrative staff would be expected to work from home and would only be
allowed to work from the office on an as-needed basis with supervisor approval. Part-
time employees may be engaged in work that can be completed from home as assigned
by their supervisor.
2
Staff may be reassigned to other program areas as needed, including the Emergency
Operations Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Programs:
In-person recreation activities are closed under full restrictions. Instead, staff will work
on developing and offering virtual recreation programs, as well as program planning for
future modification of programs as public health guidelines are relaxed over time.
The only program that could be open to the public is if the City decided to provide
childcare services to essential workers. Even in this instance, childcare services would
be modified to protect participants and employees, consistent with guidance from San
Mateo County Health, and the State of California’s Community Care Licensing Division.
Facility:
All community centers and childcare sites would be open to employees on a limited
basis, but will remain closed to the public.
Moderate Restrictions
Under moderate restrictions, recreation programs would continue to remain closed to
the public and front counter operations would continue to take place only by phone or e-
mail. The primary difference between full and moderate restrictions is that Recreation
administrative staff would have the option to work out of their offices or continue to
telecommute. Likewise, part-time employees may be engaged in in-office work
assigned by their supervisor.
Personnel:
Recreation administrative staff would have the option to return to the office. Continued
telecommuting would be encouraged. The in-office visits may be scheduled with
modified, limited contact, processes depending on the number of staff who wish to be in
the office in the same building at the same time. Supervisors will have the option to
engage part-time employees in work activities as needed, keeping in mind any
regulations set forth by the County’s public health orders, and guidance by the Human
Resources and City Manager Departments. Work activities could include office
organization and clean up, day to day administration, and program planning.
Staff may be reassigned to other program areas as needed, including the Emergency
Operations Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Programs:
In-person recreation activities will largely remain closed under moderate restrictions.
Staff will continue working on virtual recreation programs and connecting community
members to needed resources.
3
The only program that could be open to the public is if the City decided to provide
childcare services to essential workers and/or City employees as described above.
Facility:
All community centers and childcare sites would be open to employees, but will remain
closed to the public.
Light Restrictions
Under light restrictions, front counters at the Municipal Services Building and the Joseph
A. Fernekes Building would be open to the public. Modified in-person business hours
may be implemented. In-person recreation programs would be offered on a limited
basis and would favor activities that would align with the requirements outlined in the
public health orders. Most recreation staff would continue to have the option to work a
combination of in-office and telecommute hours, considering the supervisory needs of
the in-person programs being offered.
Personnel:
Most recreation administrative staff would continue to have the option to work a
combination of in-office and telecommute hours, considering the supervisory needs of
the in-person programs being offered. Part-time staff would also be engaged in
enhanced cleaning efforts to maintain clean facilities between program offerings.
Beyond staffing in-person program offerings, supervisors may continue engaging part-
time employees in other work activities as needed, keeping in mind any regulations set
forth by the County’s public health orders and other guidance from the City. Work
activities could include office organization and clean up, day to day administration, and
program planning.
Programs:
In-person recreation programs would be offered on a limited basis and would favor
activities that would align with the requirements outlined in the public health orders.
While the specific orders are unknown at this time, such activities could include fitness
classes that take place outdoors or indoor, small group classes that can accommodate
social distancing. In addition, participation in recreation activities would be limited to
small groups with ample physical distancing, and participants and instructors would be
required to take any precautions outlined in the public health orders.
Facility:
All community centers and childcare sites would be open to employees. When
determining in-person recreation activities, staff will be mindful about making the most
efficient use of facilities in determining which ones will be open to the public.
4
Unrestricted
In the unrestricted phase, Recreation Division activities will return to normal and will
likely include modifications made during the restricted phases that will likely be adopted
as new standards of practice. Practices expected to carry over include enhanced
cleaning efforts between program offerings and increased use of electronic forms that
can be processed via e-mail or online.
Personnel:
Recreation administrative staff will return to working in the office. Telecommuting could
still take place on a limited basis with supervisor approval, if permitted by City policies.
Part-time staff will return to supporting in-person programs and supporting work as
assigned by their supervisor.
Programs:
Recreation programs would be expanded to include larger groups and social distancing
in programs would no longer be mandatory.
Facility:
All community centers and childcare sites would be open to employees and the public.
5
PARKS DIVISION
The Parks and Recreation Department manages 300 acres of parks and open space
areas, including all public trees and the Common Greens for the benefit of its residents.
Full Restrictions
Under full restrictions, Park facilities such as restrooms, playgrounds, the dog park,
picnic sites, and any other areas that encourage gathering are closed to the public. Only
passive recreation areas such as walking paths and open space areas remain open.
Front counter operations take place only by phone or e-mail as much as possible.
Parks administrative staff (Manager, Supervisors, and Administrative Assistants) would
be expected to work from home and would only be allowed to work from the office on an
as-needed basis with supervisor approval in order to continue to meet resident needs
for functions that can only be performed from the Maintenance Services Building.
Personnel:
Parks administrative staff are expected to work from home and would only be allowed to
work from the office on an as-needed basis with supervisor approval or to serve in a
staffing coverage capacity so as not to interrupt operations for the public. Part-time
employees may be engaged in work that can be completed from home as assigned by
their supervisor or are scheduled alternatively to full-time staff so as to reduce number
of staff at the Maintenance Services Building.
Full-time staffing is reduced to 20% of normal operations having four to five employees
on staff at any given day. Their focus would be maintaining safe paths of travel in the
parks, hazard abatement, emergency response, and sanitation of commonly used
assets such as trash cans and hand rails. As time allows, duties like mowing and weed
abatement may occur. All remaining staff are placed on standby to be called in if
needed. Tree crew members are additionally are standby and will be called periodically
as needed for emergency tree work.
All vehicles are not to be shared and each vehicle is to be disinfected after each use. All
staff will be provided protective masks and required to wear them while at work.
Staff may be reassigned to other areas as needed, including the Emergency Operations
Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Committees:
Improving Public Places Committee and Beautification Committee meetings are
cancelled as well as any events scheduled within the full restriction period.
6
Facilities:
Park facilities such as restrooms, playgrounds, dog parks, picnic sites, and any other
areas of congregation are closed to the public. Only passive recreation areas such as
walking paths and open space areas remain open. Sports courts are closed. Drinking
fountains are shut off as well. Internally, the Maintenance Services Building lunchroom,
conference room, and other gathering areas will be closed.
Moderate Restrictions
Under moderate restrictions, larger more frequently used parks may begin to have
facilities such as bathrooms reopened with an increased cleaning frequency throughout
the day, if permitted by County health orders. The dog park may reopen with signage
enforcing social distancing. Front counter operations would continue to take place only
by phone or e-mail if possible and if any human interaction was necessary, proper
distancing will be enforced and physical barriers will be erected at counters. More park
staff will be scheduled each week and Supervisors will have the option to return to their
offices, but will be encouraged to work from home for at least two days a week.
Personnel:
Parks administrative staff would have the option to return to the office, but may be
encouraged to telecommute two days a week or more. Maintenance staffing will
increase to 50%-60% of normal staffing. Staff will focus on increased bathroom cleaning
frequencies, as well as returning to regular maintenance such as mowing and weed
abatement, and will start to attend to deferred repairs on major infrastructure such as
irrigation mainlines, valves, and hardscapes. Major renovation work will be paused until
restrictions are eased. Part-time workers will resume their normal shifts and full-time
staff will return to weekend schedule. Protective face masks will be provided for all staff.
Staff may be reassigned to other program areas as needed, including the Emergency
Operations Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Committees:
Improving Public Places Committee and Beautification Committee meetings will remain
cancelled. Any planned events will be cancelled until restrictions are lifted.
Facility:
Playgrounds will remain closed and restrooms will be opened and cleaned on a more
frequent schedule throughout the day. Picnic sites will remain closed as well as sports
courts with exception of tennis courts as this can be played at safe distances. Sites will
be opened based on recreational program needs and all facilities that are opened will
be sanitized using a chlorine bleach disinfecting unit. The Maintenance Services
Building lunchroom and conference room will only be used with proper social distancing
and sanitization efforts.
7
Light Restrictions
Under light restrictions, all park facilities will reopen. Sites will be opened in a prioritized
manner based on recreational program needs, and all facilities/assets that are opened
will be sanitized using a chlorine bleach disinfecting unit prior to opening. Restrooms
and playgrounds will be cleaned and disinfected regularly. All maintenance staff will
return to work, in normal capacities and start performing deferred maintenance work.
Personnel:
Staffing will return to 100% under lighter restrictions, but will not share vehicles and will
be encouraged to continue social distancing. Parks administrative employees will be
working at offices, but the option of occasional telecommuting with supervisor approval.
Tree work will resume full operations. Front office operations will still practice social
distancing and use protective barriers at areas of public interactions. Masks will be
provided and may be required if recommended by the County’s health officer.
Committees:
Improving Public Places Committee and Beautification Committee meetings will remain
cancelled, but planned events will be able to be held with proper protocols.
Facility:
All facilities will be open to the public with increased cleaning frequencies. All
playgrounds, restrooms, and park assets will be sanitized with chlorine bleach
disinfecting unit and will be prioritized based on programming.
Unrestricted
During the unrestricted period, all operations will return to normal and work cycles will
resume with an extra effort to catch up on deferred maintenance such as weed
abatement in right-of-way areas. Cleansing and proper hygienic protocols will be
implemented to keep staff safe. Processes that can be done via computer or online will
remain virtual.
Personnel:
All staff return to normal operations with sanitation of work areas as a focus for all
employees. Masks may be issued to employees for optional use.
Committees:
Improving Public Places Committee and Beautification Committee resume normal
meetings and events as scheduled.
Facility:
All park facilities and assets will be fully opened and sanitized before opening using a
chlorine bleach disinfecting unit. Administrative staff will return to offices and clean their
workspaces regularly.
8
BUILDING MAINTENANCE DIVISION
Full Restrictions
Under full restrictions, non-essential facilities and any other areas that encourage
gatherings are closed to the public. Only essential facilities such as Police, Fire, the City
Manager’s office and the Maintenance Services Building remain open. Front counter
operations take place only by phone or e-mail as much as possible. Building
Maintenance administrative staff (Manager, Supervisors, and Administrative Assistants)
would be expected to work from home and would only be allowed to work from the
office on an as-needed basis with supervisor approval in order to continue to meet
resident needs for functions that can only be performed from the Maintenance Services
Building.
Personnel:
Building Maintenance administrative staff are expected to work from home and would
only be allowed to work from the office on an as-needed basis with supervisor approval
or to serve in a staffing coverage capacity so as not to interrupt operations for the
public. Part-time employees may be engaged in work that can be completed from home
as assigned by their supervisor or are scheduled to support full-time staff.
Full-time staffing is reduced to 20% of normal operations having four to five employees
on staff at any given time. Their focus would be maintaining essential facilities and
supporting front line departments. Staff will concentrate on disinfecting, sanitation and
emergency response. As time allows, non-essential facilities will be serviced to
address the needs of other City departments, working from the office. All remaining
staff are held on standby to be called in if needed.
All vehicles are not to be shared and each vehicle is to be disinfected after each use. All
staff will be provided protective masks and required to wear them while at work.
Staff may be reassigned to other program areas as needed, including the Emergency
Operations Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Facilities:
Non-essential City facilities and any other areas of congregation are closed to the
public. Only essential facilities such as Police, Fire, the City Manager’s office and the
Maintenance Services Building remain open. Front counter operations take place only
by phone or e-mail as much as possible.
9
Moderate Restrictions
Under moderate restrictions, essential and non-essential facilities will be occasional
occupied by City departments. Workspace, common areas and restrooms would re-
opened and require an increased cleaning frequency. Front counter operations would
continue to take place only by phone or e-mail if possible and if any human interaction
was necessary, proper distancing will be enforced and physical barriers will be erected
at counters. Additional Building Maintenance staff will be scheduled each week and
Supervisors will continue managing staff schedule from the office with the option to
return to work from home when appropriate.
Personnel:
Building Maintenance administrative staff would have the option to return to the office,
but will be encouraged to telecommute for at least two days a week or more.
Maintenance staffing will increase to 50%-60% of normal staffing. Staff will focus on
increased disinfecting and cleaning frequencies, as well as returning to routine
maintenance including HVAC and fire/life safety issues. Staff will start to prepare
facilities for the return to normal operations. Building systems will be inspected and
tested to ensure an easy return of programs and services. Day and night shifts may
resume their normal shifts including the weekend schedule. Protective face masks will
be provided for all staff.
Staff may be reassigned to other program areas as needed, including the Emergency
Operations Center or other critical services, such as food distribution.
Facility:
Under moderate restrictions, all essential facilities will remain open to essential workers
and closed to the public. Each department will be encouraged to wipe down their area
prior to starting work and occasional throughout the day to support Building
Maintenance efforts. Front counter operations take place only by phone or e-mail as
much as possible.
Light Restrictions
Under light restrictions, additional facilities will reopen based on departmental and
program needs. All facilities that are opened will be sanitized prior to opening.
Workspaces, common areas and restrooms will be cleaned and disinfected regularly. All
maintenance staff will return to work, in normal capacities and start performing deferred
maintenance work.
Personnel:
Staffing will return to 100% under lighter restrictions, but staff will not share vehicles
whenever possible and will be encouraged to continue social distancing. Building
Maintenance administrative employees will be working at offices, with the option of
occasional telecommuting occasionally with supervisor approval. Front office operations
10
will still practice social distancing and use protective barriers at areas of public
interactions. Masks will be provided and required to wear protective masks.
Facility:
In this scenario, staff is prepared for all facilities to be opened to the public with
increased cleaning frequencies. All workspaces, common areas and restrooms will be
sanitized and will be prioritized based on programming. The Maintenance Services
Building lunchroom and conference room will be open to employees but social
distancing will be recommended. Each department will be encouraged to wipe down
their area prior to starting work and occasional throughout the day.
Unrestricted
During the unrestricted period, all operations will return to normal and work cycles will
resume with an extra effort to catch up on deferred maintenance such as filter
replacements, inspections, testing and repairs. Cleansing and proper hygiene protocols
will be implemented to keep staff safe. Processes that can be done via computer or
online will be pushed to remain virtual.
Personnel:
All staff return to normal operations with sanitation of work areas as a focus for all
employees. Masks will still be issued to employees for optional use.
Facility:
All facilities will be fully opened and sanitized before opening. Administrative staff will
return to offices and clean their workspaces regularly. Each department will be
encouraged to wipe down their area prior to starting work and occasional throughout the
day.
Staff Report
DATE: May 19, 2020
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Fiscal Implications Related to COVID-19
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive an update on proposed budget
implications as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and provide feedback.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
The City of South San Francisco remains largely fiscally sound due to strong reserves, however, a
significant budget deficit is projected as a result of COVID-19 due to decreased sales tax revenue,
transient occupancy tax revenue (i.e. hotel tax), and revenues generated from Recreation programs
and other City services. As a result, staff has been engaged in budget exercises to reduce the
Department’s General Fund footprint.
The City Council’s Budget Subcommittee will be meeting on Monday, May 18 at 3:00 p.m. to
discuss any potential budget reductions. The staff report, along with any exhibits showing potential
budget cuts, will be forwarded to the Parks and Recreation Commission for their information. Staff
will be prepared to report on this matter verbally.
By: Greg Mediati Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR
Month: March 2020
Day Date Event Time Location
Sunday 01
Monday 02 Improving Public Places Committee meeting 5:30 p.m.
Corp. Yard
conference room
Tuesday 03
Wednesday 04 Thursday 05
Friday 06 Saturday 07
Sunday 08 Monday 09
Tuesday 10 CPRS Annual Conference & EXPO (3/10-3/13) Long Beach
Wednesday 11 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers
Thursday 12 Friday 13 Senior Health Fair
Saturday 14 Summer Camp Registration Begins Rescheduled to April 3 – 17 via an e-mail registration process. Sunday 15
Monday 16
Tuesday 17 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers
Wednesday 18
Thursday 19 Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. MSB Betty Weber
Friday 20 Saturday 21
Sunday 22
Monday 23 Spring Session Classes Begin
Spring Camp
Tuesday 24 Spring Camp
Wednesday 25 Spring Camp City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers
Thursday 26 Spring Camp Friday 27 Spring Camp Saturday 28 Sunday 29
Monday 30 Tuesday 31
Cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 Pandemic
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR
Month: April 2020
Day Date Event Time Location
Wednesday 01 After School Program Lottery Registration/Priority
Registration (April 1 – 10) Rescheduled to April 3 –
24 via an e-mail registration process.
Thursday 02
Friday 03 Author Talk
CAC Youth Art Show
Magnolia Center
MSB
Saturday 04 CAC Youth Art Show
Easter Egg Hunt
MSB
Orange Park
Sunday 05
Monday 06 Improving Public Places Committee meeting 5:30 p.m. Corp. Yard conference room
Tuesday 07
Wednesday 08 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Online Meeting
Thursday 09
Friday 10
Saturday 11
Sunday 12
Monday 13 Adult Softball League Begins
Tuesday 14
Wednesday 15
Thursday 16 Author Talk
Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m.
Magnolia Center
MSB Betty Weber
Friday 17 Senior Volunteer Luncheon
Saturday 18
Junior Giants Registration Begins Registration
postponed to May for virtual program called “Junior
Giants at Home”
Sunday 19
Monday 20
Tuesday 21 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers
Wednesday 22 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Online Meeting
Thursday 23
Friday 24 Arbor Day
Saturday 25
Sunday 26 Youth Karate Tournament
Monday 27
Tuesday 28
Wednesday 29
Thursday 30
Cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 Pandemic
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR
Month: June 2020
Day Date Event Time Location
TBD Adult Summer Basketball Begins [Postponed
- Decision Pending]
Monday 01 First Day of Summer Camp [Postponed -
Decision Pending]
Summer Session Classes Begin [Decision
Pending]
Improving Public Places Committee meeting 5:30 p.m. Corp. Yard conference room
Tuesday 02 Junior Giants Coaches Meeting
Wednesday 03
Thursday 04
Friday 05
Saturday 06
Sunday 07
Monday 08 Junior Giants Begins
Tuesday 09
Wednesday 10 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Pending online meeting
(MSB Council Chambers)
Thursday 11
Friday 12
Saturday 13 IPP Planting Event (TBD) TBD
Sunday 14
Monday 15
Tuesday 16 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. Pending online meeting
(MSB Council Chambers)
Wednesday 17
Thursday 18 Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. Pending online meeting
(MSB Betty Weber)
Friday 19 Outdoor Movie Night in the Park
Saturday 20
Sunday 21
Monday 22
Tuesday 23
Wednesday 24 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Pending online meeting
(MSB Council Chambers)
Thursday 25
Friday 26
Saturday 27
Sunday 28
Monday 29
Tuesday 30
Cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 Pandemic
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: March 26, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Parks Update
Parks COVID-19 Update
In response to the ongoing public health crisis, all playgrounds, picnic facilities, park restrooms,
sports courts, in addition to the dog park, skate park, and the bocce courts have been closed to the
public to discourage gatherings where individuals do not maintain appropriate social distancing.
Signage has been posted at each location. Additionally, staff is locking or caution taping off these
amenities whenever possible. All drinking fountains have been turned off. Staff continues to
monitor park usage, and may consider expanding closures as necessary.
Additionally, the Parks Division reduced staffing by half during the week of March 16. Upon
reassessment, the Division has decided to further reduce staffing to four Parks Maintenance staff
on hand at any time to maintain minimum safety standards. This will greatly reduce the Division’s
capacity to respond to regular maintenance needs. Many routine tasks, like weed abatement,
planting, trimming, among many others, will be deferred until staffing returns to a more
manageable level. All other Parks staff will be on standby and ready to respond to any emergencies
that may arise. The Parks Division recognizes that there will be a large amount of deferred work
with this staffing plan, but prioritizes the health and safety of our employees, their families, and
the public above all else.
Some Good News: Mission Blue Butterfly Sightings!
Staff recently spotted the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly in multiple locations on Sign Hill,
even in areas where they haven’t been observed since the 1980s. There were also many eggs and
caterpillars identified as well, indicating that staff’s efforts on Sign Hill are having a positive
impact on the species, and pollinators in general.
Bi-Weekly Update March 26, 2020
Page 2 of 2
Building Maintenance Update
COVID-19 Building Maintenance Modified Operations
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and in following direction by the Centers for Disease Control,
County of San Mateo Health, and California Department of Public Health, Building Maintenance
staff have modified operations to minimal staffing in order to reduce potential exposure to
employees and the public as a whole. To comply with this mandate, the Building Maintenance
Division has implemented a modified work schedule and temporary staff reduction.
Building Maintenance will have four staff members on site, seven days a week, working 10:00
a.m. to 6:30 p.m. to service the Maintenance Services Building, Police Department, Miller Parking
Garage, Fire Administration Building and Emergency Operations Center, City Hall and City Hall
Annex. Staff not on duty have been placed on standby status and will respond to emergency calls,
as necessary. All nonessential preventative maintenance, minor repairs and improvement projects
have been placed on hold, until the shelter-in-place order is lifted and staffing levels normalize.
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 2, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Emergency Childcare Discussions
During the week of March 23, several Parks and Recreation staff members participated in two conference calls with other Parks and Recreation agencies in San Mateo County on the topic of providing childcare to health care and other essential workers. The calls were organized by Sheila Canzian, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of San Mateo. Director Canzian received a call from Mills Peninsula Health Services asking her if the City of San Mateo could assist in
providing childcare for health care workers. Director Canzian organized the call with other Parks and Recreation agencies in an effort to learn about what childcare programs are being offered, if any, and what resources could be pooled to meet the childcare need for essential workers. As of the meeting on March 26, Director Canzian reported that Mills Peninsula, Seton, Sequoia,
and San Mateo County General Hospital reported a total of about 100 children in need of childcare from these hospitals. Staff also learned that Champions Before and After School Program will be opening up childcare prioritized for essential workers at Franklin Elementary School in Burlingame. This is a site in which Champions normally operates a Before and After School Program. Champions plans on starting their program by opening three classrooms with 12 students
per room (36 students total) and will consider opening additional classrooms at other sites depending on need, and the availability of staff and supplies. Furthermore, the San Mateo-Foster City School District confirmed that they also will soon be opening a childcare program for essential workers.
As of this report, the Department’s Childcare Program has not been asked to activate a childcare site for essential workers, but staff will continue to participate in the countywide discussions to stay connected to the issues. Staff is in touch with Dr. John Skerry, Physician-in-Chief at Kasier Hospital South San Francisco, who reports no local need at present for childcare services. Both
SSF Fire and SSF PD report that childcare is not a pressing need for their respective staff members.
Note the County’s new Shelter in Place Order does allow operation of childcare facilities, but only to serve the needs of health or emergency workers.
Bi-Weekly Update April 2, 2020
Page 2 of 3
Virtual Recreation During these challenging times, the South San
Francisco Parks and Recreation Department is
still committed to providing fun, educational, and recreational resources for community members of all ages. In an effort to continue to meet this need, staff has created the Virtual
Recreation & Resource Center, available at
www.ssf.net/virtualrec. While the website currently includes links to external recreation resources, staff is working towards providing online classes using videoconferencing software,
and making a more personal connection with
recreation participants via a series of short videos made by the Department’s instructors and staff members.
Good News
The Department shares the following in an effort to promote positive news: #SSFStrong
The Department’s staff members collaborated to create a #SSFStrong social media post (pictured left), showing appreciation for essential
workers and community members. The Facebook post from March 30, 2020 reads: The #SSF Parks and Recreation Team is showing support for #SSFstrong! Our team is spreading some positivity from home to show we are going to get through this together. We would like to say a big #ThankYou to the our Parks and Facility Maintenance divisions, medical professionals, law enforcement, fire department, public works, store clerks, volunteer workers and essential workers on the frontline
through the current pandemic. With your hard work and dedication, we are able to stay safe and healthy! We’re kicking off this week with a positive outlook. As a department, we are still here for you and we definitely miss seeing our #SSF community members already. Remember to stay safe
& healthy, check in with family & friends, and stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates. We will get
www.ssf.net/virtualrec
Bi-Weekly Update April 2, 2020
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through this together South City! Share your SSF Strong picture with a heart or SSF gear below in the
comments or tag us in your post to spread the message 😀😀 Administrative Assistants Report Complimentary Calls from Community Members
The Department is always appreciative of our Administrative Assistants – Susan Filereto, Kari Jung, and Cristina Simmons – and the important role they play by interfacing with community members on a daily basis. This role has proven to be even more important during this pandemic as community members continue to express their relief and gratitude to get a hold of a live person
when they call. Both Susan and Kari, who have taken the lead on fielding calls for Recreation and
the Maintenance divisions respectively, have said that most community members have been supportive and understanding despite our program, playground, and facility closures. Senior Services Team Makes Personal Calls to Seniors
The Senior Services Program team from the Parks and Recreation Department’s Magnolia Center has been reaching out to Adult Day Care clients and Magnolia Center participants to check on how they are doing, find out if they have any needs, and try to direct them to services if needed. Staff members miss the Senior Services community and since most participants are in a high risk group,
want to make sure that clients are being safe and staying healthy as well as chat with them and
catch up socially. The Department appreciates the Senior Services Program team for staying in touch and continuing to serve the City’s seniors the best they can during this challenging time. Joe Anderson, Senior Services Van Driver, Supports SSF Community Volunteer Corps
Joe Anderson, the Senior Services Program Van Driver, has been working to deliver food through the South San Francisco Community Volunteer Corps this past week. He delivered 33 boxes of food to 11 SSF seniors one day, and 150 boxes of food on March 30 to help with the demand and need to get food to seniors that really need the assistance. Joe normally is responsible for driving
clients to and from the Adult Day Care program, as well as providing general assistance to all
Senior Services programs at Magnolia Center. The Department thanks Joe for going above and beyond to help seniors in SSF.
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 9, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Parks Update
Modified Operations Update During the COVID-19 crisis, the Parks Division is dedicated to keeping staff and residents healthy and safe, while focusing on keeping parks free of any potential hazards. Currently, Parks Division staffing has been reduced to five individuals working in the field at a time, in one week rotations.
All staff are practicing social distancing and all other recommended preventative measures while they are working their shifts. While we work to get through these difficult times, the Division’s priorities are to keep park spaces clean and safe for the public by sanitizing surfaces, trash and litter pick up, keeping pathways clear, and hazard abatement. Park amenities such as bathrooms, playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas, the skate park, bocce courts, and the dog park have all
been closed to the public. City staff will be working on other duties as time permits, but there will be a noticeable decrease in maintenance standards, especially along medians and right-of-way areas. The Parks Division will ensure that any traffic safety issues will be quickly dealt with, but weed abatement and litter pick up on medians will come secondary to areas that the public are using on a regular basis.
Sign Hill Restoration Program Update While staffing has been reduced, the Division’s Sign Hill Restoration Program has shifted focus from field work to creating educational materials for residents. Staff are creating short “nature
walk” videos guiding viewers through some of the plant species and points of interest on Sign Hill.
Staff is also working on creating a printable children’s nature guide, and a tri-fold field guide for common plants that can be found in South San Francisco on Sign Hill and elsewhere. During this shelter in place period, Sign Hill is still experiencing some neighborhood use, and the City has posted signage on how to enjoy the park safely and responsibly to protect both resident health and
the natural resources that can be found there.
While the Division is temporarily reducing staffing levels, we are also aware that we do not want to lose the progress made on Sign Hill to date. The spring season is the most important time for combating invasive species and establishing new native plants. The Divisions’ Natural Resource
Specialist will be checking on the new plantings and surveying the park at least once every two
weeks. Recently, staff conducted a survival rate study on the new native plantings, and found 88% of newly installed plants are surviving. This is quite promising and a very high survival rate, as new plantings in open space settings generally have a 50% - 60% survival rate.
Bi-Weekly Update April 9, 2020
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Building Maintenance Update
Terrabay Recreation Building Floor Repairs Prior to the shelter in place order, Building Maintenance staff hired a flooring contractor to make
repairs to the tile floors at the Terrabay Recreation Building. The original locker rooms and restrooms were constructed using a small hexagon tile. Over the years the tiles broke and a large crack formed in the locker rooms due to the settling of the building. Contractors overlaid the tile floor with an attractive epoxy coating. The floor is now cleaner, more durable, and easier to maintain.
Before After
Fire Station 64 Remodel Update Building Maintenance staff were notified that the Fire Station 64 renovation project has been
completed, and required a new gas dryer prior to opening. Building Maintenance purchased and installed the dryer the same day.
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 23, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Parks Update Operations Update
The Parks Division continues to operate with five maintenance staff on one week rotations, while the remainder are “on call” for duties as needed. All staff are practicing social distancing and all other recommended preventative measures while they are working their shifts. While we work to get through these difficult times, the Division’s priorities are to keep our park areas clean and safe
for the public by wiping down hard surfaces, cleaning and changing trash bins, litter pick up,
keeping pathways clear, and hazard abatement. Park amenities such as bathrooms, playgrounds, sports courts, the skate park, bocce courts, and the dog park remain closed to the public. During this spring growing season and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parks Division is focusing
on balancing staffing levels, public safety, and basic maintenance tasks so as not to fall too far
behind. Since the rains have receded for the time being, staff have been focusing on mowing turf areas, prioritizing ballfield infields and our larger, more frequently used parks. This weather causes grasses and weeds to grow very quickly, and may create unsafe conditions. Staff will also be performing minor weed abatement with any additional time that may be available outside of these
hazard mitigation duties.
Staff have additionally practiced utilizing a new sterilization device at the Orange Park Shelter and bathrooms for the food distribution event and to prepare for opening playgrounds and park amenities when the shelter in place order is lifted. This device is essentially a spray gun attached
to a hose, with a chamber for chlorinated pellets that produce a disinfecting mixture of water and
a bleach/chlorine type compound that kills odors, viruses, bacteria, mold and algae. This device will be used on all playgrounds, benches, picnic tables, bathrooms, and other park assets that frequently are contacted by the public. The chemical mixture is environmentally friendly, EPA and USDA approved, and is pet, plant and people friendly. Once the order is lifted, the Parks
Division plans to open each facility one at a time after they have been disinfected using a
combination of this device and our standard disinfecting cleaning products. Lastly, the Division has been coordinating with the Recreation and the Facilities Divisions to prepare for the lifting of the shelter in place order. All three divisions are making a concerted effort
Bi-Weekly Update April 23, 2020
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to ensure that as many of the Department’s programs and services as possible are reactivated safely. Sign Hill Update
Emma Lewis, the Parks Division’s Natural Resource Specialist, was a guest speaker at the first ever San Bruno Mountain Conference, held on Sunday, April 19. Due to the COVID-19 shelter in place order, the conference, originally scheduled to be held at the Mission Blue Center in Brisbane,
was held remotely by web conference.
County Supervisor Dave Canepa made opening remarks prior to presentations from experts on horticulture and environmental restoration from the California Native Plant Society, San Bruno Mountain Watch, San Mateo County Parks Department, City of Brisbane and City of South San
Francisco. Topics covered included native plant species, endangered butterflies, wildflowers
commonly seen in the spring, and the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for San Bruno Mountain. The conference culminated with Emma’s presentation on the City’s restoration work on Sign Hill. Once the conference recording is made available, staff will share with the City Council for their information.
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 30, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Shelter-in-Place Order Extended
Consistent with the County Health Officer’s revised order to extend the shelter-in-place mandate for the entire month of May, recreation programs and facilities continue to be closed to the public, and staff is largely working remotely. Additionally, park amenities including picnic areas, sports
courts, the dog park, skate park, restrooms, drinking fountains remain closed.
Some loosening of specific restrictions are expected in the coming days, but have not been announced by the County Health Officer at the time of drafting this report. Staff will continue to notify residents and participants of program closures on the Recreation Division website at
www.ssf.net/rec. Recreation Staff Continue to Serve Despite SIP The Parks and Recreation Department has over 200 part-time employees who are unable to work,
or are only working on a limited basis, due to the shelter-in-place (SIP) orders. While many full-
time administrative staff have remained busy planning alternative programs, preparing for future opening of services to the public, and serving in the EOC, the Department would like to acknowledge that many part-time staff are also committed to continuing to serve the community during this time. We are proud to acknowledge Parks and Recreation staff members for their
initiative to think creatively and try out new ideas about alternative ways to offer recreation
services. Many staff members have expressed relief and appreciation for the City’s very generous commitment to pay all employees through the end of June. It should be noted that while the Department’s workforce serves as short-term employment for some individuals, many have served the City for several years (some as much as 20+ years), and many others remain committed to the
City by returning seasonally to assist with special events or as needed year to year.
Bi-Weekly Update April 30, 2020
Page 2 of 5
Instructor Highlight Parks and Recreation sewing instructor, Judy Barretto,
has been applying her talents to sewing face masks for
City employees. On Friday, April 17, Judy delivered her first batch of approximately 45 face masks to staff at the Maintenance Services Building. The masks are sturdy and come in many different patterns. Once she
completed the masks, Judy washed them and inserted
each mask into a zip-lock bag in order to keep them clean. Judy has agreed to continue making masks for City employees from home for the next several weeks during her regularly scheduled work hours and
continues to work with Recreation Supervisor Devin
Stenhouse to deliver masks on a weekly basis. She has even expressed her willingness to volunteer her time if a greater supply of masks is needed at once. Judy’s efforts are greatly appreciated.
Virtual Recreation Classes
The Department launched its very first virtual recreation class via the GoToMeeting application during the week of April 20 with Knitting and Crocheting. Students participated in a two-hour class, going through a modified lesson plan for the purpose of virtual learning. Students expressed
their excitement at the opportunity to connect with their favorite instructors and classmates online, and look forward to continuing their courses virtually. As of the week of April 27, there are several classes being offered each week to participants who were originally registered for Spring classes. These classes include Belly Dancing, Knitting and Crochet, and Ballet. The Department is piloting these classes with past participants first in order to help instructors become familiar with teaching
via GoToMeeting. At this point, the Department anticipates offering virtual recreation classes through June 30 free of charge to the community.
Masks made by
Recreation Instructor Judy Barretto
Knitting and Crocheting with Recreation Instructor Victoria Gavidia Ballet with
Recreation Instructor Maria Spremich
Bi-Weekly Update April 30, 2020
Page 3 of 5
Virtual Recreation Program Videos Another area in which the Department has continued our community connections is via the
creation of pre-recorded videos. These videos are available on the Department’s Virtual Recreation
and Resource Center webpage at www.ssf.net/virtualrec under the category “SSF Parks and Recreation Department Virtual Videos.” The Department continues to build up our video catalogue.
Screen shot of K-5 Basketball Warm-up Drills with Recreation Coordinator Bill Stridbeck,
also known as “Coach Bill” Summer Camp After cancelling the in-person Summer Camp Registration Day on Saturday, March 14, the Department modified the in-person registration process using electronically fillable registration
forms that prospective participants can complete on a computer and submit via e-mail, and submit payments online. An alternative mail-in process is also available to community members who do not have access to a computer.
Over 300 families submitted lottery forms to participate in the summer camp registration. The lottery determines the order in which registration forms will be processed. Staff are in the process
of enrolling participants into their desired camps, or if the camp is full, into their second choice of camp or on the waiting list.
While the Department does not yet know how public health policies and guidelines will impact
Bi-Weekly Update April 30, 2020
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summer camp beginning on June 1, staff is working on alternative scenarios in which to offer camp that would allow for greater social distancing. This includes:
• Reducing the number of children accepted into each camp to allow more social distancing.
• At sites where there is limited indoor space to allow children their own classrooms, i.e. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building, staff is considering using other community centers and school sites to relocate children. The school district has offered space at Monte
Verde Elementary School for this purpose.
• The Department may cancel all fieldtrips and swimming at Orange Pool to reduce exposure to large crowds.
Staff will continue to monitor the public health orders and best practices learned from childcare services being offered to essential workers by other agencies in order to redesign the Department’s summer camp program. EOC Staffing
As the COVID-19 pandemic began to force people from across the nation to shelter in place, the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated. The objective of the EOC is to help to ensure health and safety of City staff and the public throughout the COVID-19 event while maintaining fiscal accountability. The EOC also helps provide public messaging that meets the
need of the public, City employees, and elected officials as well as track, fulfill, and deploy logistical items to support the COVID-19 response. As a disaster service worker, the efforts from the staff will ensure that the community is able to recover as quickly as possible. The EOC team is over 50 members strong and the following Parks and Recreation staff are assisting in the efforts:
• Deputy Director of Emergency Services: Sharon Ranals
• Care and Shelter Unit: Mike Mulkerrins, Kelli Jo Cullinan, Austin Navarro
• Documentation Unit: Erin O’Brien and Brian Noce
Cultural Arts Update
General Art Show Follow-up – Complimentary Letter by Artist A member of the Hunter’s Point Shipyard Artists group and South San Francisco General Art Show finalist, Eileen Downey, sent staff the copy of a letter that she sent to the 250 Hunter’s Point
artist community members. This letter is available in Attachment 1. In it she expressed her respect and admiration for the members of the South San Francisco Cultural Arts Commission who facilitated the presentation of the art show, from receiving the art to the hosting of the event. She also commended the care and attention to detail shown by Cultural Arts Specialist Ercie Santos,
from preparing event documents to the work involved in producing the event. She noted that
Specialist Santos was readily available for assistance. She conveyed her overall happiness with the experience and encouraged her colleagues to participate in the future 2021 presentation of this art
gallery event.
Bi-Weekly Update April 30, 2020
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Cultural Arts Webpage Artist Resources for Financial Hardships The Cultural Arts Commission webpage at www.ssf.net/culturalarts currently shows newly-added
links to organizations that offer financial resources to artists and creative professionals who are
suffering economic hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The addition of this information was prompted through the request of Commissioner Michael DeNatale who brought a KQED article to the attention of staff. Cultural Arts Specialist Santos located and included additional links from the California Arts Council and the American for the Arts organization.
Screen shot excerpt of artist resources available at www.ssf.net/culturalarts
Attachment 1
Complimentary Letter from Artist Eileen Downey to
members of the Hunter's Point Shipyard Artists
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: May 7, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Parks Update Sign Hill Restoration Project Update
This winter, as part of the Sign Hill Habitat Restoration Project, Parks staff and volunteers planted over 500 native plants on Sign Hill and removed tens of thousands of invasive weeds to
improve habitat for the endangered Mission
Blue butterfly. They planted nectar rich wildflowers as well as silver lupines, the host plant for Mission Blue caterpillars. These plants were locally sourced from the Mission Blue
Nursery run by the non-profit organization, San
Bruno Mountain Watch. Staff have been diligently monitoring these plantings and after a few months of growth, staff is finally seeing the results from the hard work and planning that was put into the planting. Plants
such as California phacelia have put out their first
flowers and the silver lupines have increased tenfold in size, attracting the endangered Mission Blue butterflies. Most notably, the Division’s Natural Resources Specialist identified multiple
Mission Blue eggs on the silver lupines planted
during the volunteer events. These eggs are a great indicator that our restoration efforts are not only very successful, but accurately targeting the endangered species that South San Francisco seeks
to protect. The more lupine that can be established
and protected on Sign Hill, the better chance these butterflies have to increase their population.
EGG
Bi-Weekly Update May 7, 2020
Page 2 of 3
Sign Hill Tree Work Update As part of the Parks Division’s objective to
reduce fuel load and enhance safety for the users
of Sign Hill, Davey Tree Service was hired to perform hazardous tree removals along the trail that extends from Ridge Court to the top of Sign Hill. Last year, Davey Tree Service performed
hazard removal and fuel reduction work along the
southern flank of the hill, stretching from the Poplar Avenue entrance west behind the homes on Rocca Avenue. This work along the Ridge Trail was the final phase of this project. The work
performed here abated many dead and hazardous
trees along this frequently used stretch of trail. In an effort to reuse resources as much as possible, Parks staff instructed that the tree chips be left on the hill and stockpiled to be used for habitat restoration efforts. Parks staff also instructed
contractors to place the large trunks of the trees that were not able to be chipped along the trail
margins to better delineate the trails for hikers. These tree trunks will also help prevent people from going off trail and stepping on potentially sensitive habitats. Citywide Landscaping Contract Update
As the City Council is aware, the City has contracted with Brightview Landscaping LLC for landscape maintenance services in the Common Greens areas and various medians, shoulders, and park areas in South San Francisco. This two-year contract expires on June 30, 2020, however, when staff was drafting and awarding the request for proposals in 2018, staff included a provision
to extend the contract in one-year increments with City Council’s approval for a total contract term of five years. Staff prepared a request for proposals early in the year, however, in light of the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent financial implications, coupled with 5-10% cost escalation year over year for contractual maintenance services in recent years, the Parks and Recreation Department is working with Brightview to extend the contract for one additional year, with no cost
increase to the City. Brightview is currently drafting an addendum to the contract. This item will go before City Council in the coming weeks for approval. If any members of the City Council have questions or concerns related to this matter, please contact Greg Mediati at [email protected]. Facilities Update
Building Fire Alarm Inspection and Testing
The Building Maintenance team continues to safely maintain City buildings during the shelter-in-place order. Recently, contractors have performed inspections and testing of the fire alarm systems
at the Magnolia Senior Center, Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building, Westborough Recreation Building and the Maintenance Services Building. These systems are required by code to be inspected and tested quarterly to ensure they will operate in the event of a fire. The remaining City buildings are in the process of being scheduled for inspection, as required.
Bi-Weekly Update May 7, 2020
Page 3 of 3
Elevator Inspections and Repairs
The Building Maintenance team is also ensuring that the elevators are safe and working
properly. The State of California performs an annual inspection of every elevator prior to issuing an operating permit. Recently, the State provided the City with a report noting minor deficiencies and required testing for the Miller Garage and Main Library elevators. Once the reports were received, the Building Maintenance team worked with an elevator repair vendor to successfully
complete the work. The State will be issuing new elevator permits to the City in the coming weeks. Parks and Facilities Staffing Update The loosening of the shelter-in-place order is allowing for additional Parks and Building
Maintenance staff to return to work. The Parks and Recreation management team is coordinating
the return of all maintenance staff to be deployed in a safe manner. While this means the parks, buildings and other areas that have been subject to deferred maintenance due to the pandemic will be serviced, it also means that the Department will need to
implement enhanced safety protocols to keep employees healthy and working safely, which may
result in some loss of productivity. These protocols range from appropriate PPE usage, physical distancing, staggering arrival and departure schedules, and sanitation practices for vehicles, tools, office spaces and common areas.
More information about departmental plans for the gradual “Restoration of Operations” (ROOP) in response to some relaxation in the County of San Mateo’s Shelter in Place Order will be provided at the City Council meeting of May 13, 2020.
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: May 14, 2020
TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update
Seniors Services Program Continues to Serve Community During SIP
While the public health orders have forced the closure of Magnolia Center, the primary hub for the Department’s Senior Services Program, the Senior Services team continues to serve South San Francisco’s older adults by:
• Writing a Senior Connections - Spring Special Edition newsletter (Attachment 1), which is available online and has been mailed to subscribers during the week of May 11. Staff member John Lau worked diligently to produce this special edition, which includes information and resources for food and meals, city events, information about the Department’s Virtual Recreation website, COVID-19 information, social connections, how
to use web conferencing software, some fun puzzles and riddles, and much more.
The newsletter also includes information about the Great Plates Delivered Program. This program, managed through San Mateo County, is a new service that matches older adults who meet certain qualifications with local restaurants to receive nutritious meals.
Qualifications include being at high risk with underlying health conditions as well as high
risk from COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure.
• Making approximately 150 calls per week to Adult Day Care clients and caregivers, senior center clients, and return calls for services and information that come through Magnolia Center. Staff is providing information and referral services as well as providing
much needed social contact.
• Putting together activity kits for Adult Day Care clients and delivering the kits to their homes.
• Supporting the South San Francisco Volunteer Corp (SSFCVC) by providing food pick-up and delivery to SSF seniors who are in need of food. This has been a collaborative effort between Sheri Boles – Community Programs Manager, Kelli Jo Cullinan – Senior Services Program Supervisor, and Joe Anderson – Senior Services Program Van Driver.
Food boxes are made possible from two sources. One is the Second Harvest Food Bank,
with 40 to 60 food boxes being delivered daily. The other source is made possible by a
donation from a generous South San Francisco resident, with food supplied by a local
Bi-Weekly Update May 14, 2020
Page 2 of 4
produce vendor. Staff have been collecting names from interested seniors and through this generous donation, the City will be able to provide 40 seniors in South San Francisco with a food box, a face mask made and donated by Childcare Program Supervisor, Laura
Armanino, the Senior Connections Spring Special Edition newsletter, and some
informational flyers on local resources to assist seniors during these challenging times.
• Inviting older adults and seniors to celebrate May is National Older Adult Month and taking part in this year’s theme of “make your mark.” The Senior Connections - Spring
Special Edition newsletter invites older adults and seniors to reach out to staff by sharing
the many ways they have made their mark on the world. Staff is looking forward to hearing back from the older adult community.
The Senior Services team remains committed to serving older adults and continues to explore alternative ways to serve the community until we can gather again at Magnolia Center and the
Municipal Services Building to resume in-person programs and activities.
2020 Junior Giants Program While COVID-19 places a questionable status on any summer sports programs, the Department is pleased to continue on to its tenth year participating in the Junior Giants program by offering
Junior Giants at Home, a free virtual program for youth ages 5 to 18. Spring and summer sessions
will be offered. Twice per week, Junior Giants participants are introduced to the fundamentals of baseball at home and will learn important lessons in health, education, and character development. Registration is open and families in South San Francisco can register and learn more about the program through the League’s Digital Dugout link at https://jrgiantsathome.org/south-san-
francisco.
Starting dates for each session are as follows:
• Spring session: May 11 – June 6
• Summer session #1: June 8 – July 4
• Summer session #2: July 6 – August 1 Before the COVID-19 crisis, Sports Program Coordinator Bill Stridbeck was looking forward to
another successful year for the Junior Giants program. In 2019, the SSF Junior Giants league
hosted 322 children and volunteers over three divisions including tee ball (ages 5-6), minors (ages 7-9), and majors (ages 10-13). Cultural Arts Commission – Northern California Public Art Administrators meeting
Cultural Arts Specialist Ercie Santos attended the virtual online meeting of the Northern California Public Art Administrators Network (PAAN) on Friday, April 24, 2020, hosted by the City of Palo Alto – Public Art Program directors. The PAAN administrators represent a regional network of government agencies and art consultants who meet to discuss specific public art issues in their
communities and statewide at large. There were roughly 40 participants representing cities
throughout the Bay Area and as far away as Sacramento. The meeting focused on the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the local art community and public art programs.
Bi-Weekly Update May 14, 2020
Page 3 of 4
The primary discussion was on how to best position the importance of public art in the coming months. Members agreed that it was imperative to include the creative sector in relief efforts and funding. Creative industries are an invaluable economic driver that is essential for growth in cities.
To that end, one suggestion was to create a vision statement that communicated the economic and
intrinsic value of the arts to elected officials and the community. Art consultant, Barbara Goldstein, reminded participants that similar to the Works Progress Administration (WPA) movement of the previous century, the contributions of creatives to this
uncommon moment in time are invaluable. Through their perspective, events unique to their
communities would be preserved in design and storytelling, and would serve as a legacy of documentation for the ages. The next meeting is scheduled for October. However, due to the ongoing gravity of the situation, participants unanimously agreed to add a third meeting to the schedule, date to be announced.
Compliments from the Community
Staff is appreciative of the many supportive comments we have received from community members by phone and through e-mail. Below is a sampling of some of the nice comments received by staff.
• To Senior Program Supervisor Kelli Jo Cullinan, in response to the Senior Connections - Spring Special Edition newsletter:
“Just wanted to let you know that this is written with great heartfelt sincerity and
compassion. This not only makes them feel better, it shows they matter. You and your team certainly make a difference for them and yourself by being selfless, caring, and helpful. God bless all of you and stay safe.”
• To Childcare Program Supervisor Laura Armanino, and in reference to Acting Classes Program Supervisor Devin Stenhouse;
“What a commendable job you, Devin, and your entire team are doing amidst the
shelter-in-place mandate! Maria Spremich's new virtual ballet class yesterday was a huge hit for our returning young ballerinas. Additionally, the little things that Parks and Rec continues to do to rally the community -- like the virtual Easter Egg hunts and Earth Day -- have been a welcome reprieve during this anxious time --
THANK YOU!”
Networking for Solutions Parks and Recreation staff have regularly checked in with colleagues in
nearby cities and have taken advantage of the resources available through
professional organizations such as the California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to troubleshoot issues arising from COVID-19. Assistant City Manager/Parks and Recreation Director Sharon Ranals and Deputy Director Greg Mediati have participated in almost weekly meetings with other San
Mateo County Parks and Recreation Directors. The Director meetings typically take place
Bi-Weekly Update May 14, 2020
Page 4 of 4
monthly, but have increased in frequency as the Directors have collaborated on topics such as providing childcare to essential workers and having a coordinated response to opening programs as shelter-in-place restrictions are relaxed.
In addition, staff has participated in CPRS weekly virtual conferencing meetings. These meetings take place throughout the week and are designated by areas of focus including the Administrators Section, Aquatics Section, Recreation Section, Aging Section, and others. While these resources have always been available, they have proven to be even more valuable for brainstorming solutions
during this time of COVID-19.
Senior
Saying Connected
with Zoom….………...8
2020 Spring
Magnolia Center Connections
Food and Meal
Services………….......2
Puzzles and
games…….….……......9
Special Edition
A Special Message to our Magnolia Center Community:
Hi Everyone,
I hope everyone is doing well and staying healthy in these challenging times as we deal with Covid-19. Although our
locations are currently closed, the senior program team is committed to serving our older adult community and we will
try our best to stay in touch and provide information and assistance to everyone that wants/needs it. Please call
650-829-3822 or email me at [email protected] for information, assistance, if you would like a social call, or just
if you want to share anything with us.
For this special edition newsletter, instead of sharing our programs and activities usually found in our newsletter, we
will be sharing with you some resources that you may find helpful during these challenging and difficult times. We
hope you know you may always reach out to us, but we also want to provide you with some resources you can also
access in our city and county. Your health and safety is at the top of our priorities.
May is National Older Adult Month and although we may not be able to celebrate together at Magnolia or the
Municipal Services Building with you, know our senior program team, the SSF Parks and Recreation Department and
the City of South San Francisco team want to thank you for the countless contributions that you all make in our
Community!! Every May, the Administration for Community Living leads our nation’s observance of Older
Americans Month. The theme for 2020 is "Make Your Mark." This theme was selected to encourage and celebrate
countless contributions that older adults make to our communities. Their time, experience, and talents benefit family,
peers, and neighbors every day. We would love to hear your stories of how you have made your “Make Your Mark”.
Please share with us by sending in your stories of how you have made your mark….you can send in pictures, stories,
poems, etc by emailing me at [email protected] This can be a fun way for us to communicate and to learn more
about you, especially during our shelter in place and until we can gather again at Magnolia or in our senior programs.
We miss you all very much and hope you are all doing well. In the future, when we can safely gather again, we look
forward to see and serving you once more. We also want to thank you for all the wonderful things you have done to
make your mark in this World, in our Community, and in our hearts.
Cheers,
Kelli Jo & The Senior Program Team (Marianna, Fran, Joe, John, Bruce, Cristina, Vangie, Lilian, Marilyn)
Special Edition
2
Did you know that the Parks and Recreatfon Department has created an online Virtual
Recreatfon and Resource Center? During these challenging tfmes, the South San
Francisco Parks and Recreatfon Department is stfll committed to providing fun, educa-
tfonal, and recreatfonal resources for community members of all ages. You can access
the webpage from your smartphones or computers at https://www.ssf.net/virtualrec.
Take a virtual tour through a museum, learn a foreign language, join SSF instructors for
an online class, and so much more! Staff are contfnuously updatfng the site, so be sure
to check back often.
Food & Meal Services
SSF Parks and Rec is online to serve you!
Great Plates Delivered Program-Meal Delivery for Seniors
For SSF older adults/seniors that need prepared meals delivered to your homes, this is a great opportunity to apply for this service.
Please make sure you qualify and read the following information provided for the Great Plates Delivered Program.
San Mateo County is launching the Great Plates Delivered Program, a new service that matches older adults at high risk with underlying health conditions as well as high risk from COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure with local restaurants to provide three nutritious meals a
day. Meals are delivered from restaurants and other food providers across San Mateo County, helping our older adults to stay home and stay healthy as we continue to shelter in place. The program also provides an avenue for local businesses to continue or re-open
operations softening the losses being felt by the COVID crisis.
San Mateo County began outreaching to restaurants on May 1st and has received overwhelming interest from many who are ready to start
cooking and delivering. Great Plates Delivered San Mateo County is now ready to enroll participants.
HERE IS THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
AGE
Anyone 65 years of age or older Anyone 60-64 who is COVID-19 positive Anyone 60-64 who has been exposed to COVID-19 with written proof from a medical professional Anyone 60-64 with an underlying health condition
IF YOU CAN ANSWER “YES” TO ALL OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:
Resident of San Mateo County Live alone or with one other eligible adult Do not receive meals from any other federal or state program Do not have family, friends, or caregivers who can help with meals Unable to prepare or shop for meals Have income less than $74,940 for single person
Interested older adults/seniors that meet the qualifiers to participate (as stated above) and want to apply
for the Great Plates Delivered San Mateo County, Please call the AAS Hotline to apply. Multi-lingual
county staff can assist the caller in completing the form. Here is the number: (800) 675-8437.
There is also a link provided to determine eligibility if needed, but it is best to use the telephone number above to apply for the program.
Here is the link to a survey to determine eligibility:
https://smcgov-106028.workflowcloud.com/forms/969663d6-479d-4138-afb1-e8b117fb25b5
Food & Meal Services (continued)
Special Edition
3
City of South San Francisco:
The City of South San Francisco will hold food distributfon sites in May and June. The locatfons will be Mills
Montessori School (formerly Hillside Elementary School), 1400 Hillside Blvd, South San Francisco on:
Friday, May 8, 10:00 a.m. - Noon
Friday, May 22, 10:00 a.m. - Noon
Friday, June 12, 10:00 a.m. - Noon
Friday, June 26, 10:00 a.m. - Noon
Second Harvest Food Bank
1-800-984-3663
https://www.shbf.org/
YMCA Community Resource Center
1-650-276-4101
https://www.ymcasf.org/community-resource-center-ymca
Meals on Wheels
1-650-323-2022
https://www.penvol.org/mealsonwheels/
St Vincent De Paul provides meal assistance to the elderly.
344 Grand Ave. (650) 589-9039
Chajinel Foundation provides nutritfous food to homebound older adults in South San Francisco.
Call 650-741-6107 or e-mail [email protected]. https://www.chajinel.com/
City of Daly City:
Doelger Senior Center, 101 Lake Merced Boulevard (650) 991-8012
Lincoln Community Center, 901 Brunswick Street (650) 991-8018
http://www.dalycity.org/City_Hall/Departments/LibraryandRecreatfonServices/rec/Actfve_Adults__Seniors.htm
Food & Meal Services (continued)
Special Edition
City of San Bruno:
San Bruno Community Foundation If you are an elderly, homebound, or at-risk San Bruno resident who needs help getting
groceries or other assistance, contact us at [email protected] or 650-826-3182.
City of Pacifica:
The Senior Services Division of the City of Pacifica Call (650)738-7350 for informatfon.
https://www.cityofpacifica.org/civicax/filebank/
4
5
Food & Meal Services (continued)
Special Edition
If you are an older adult that seeks Information about food or meals, a healthy person age 18
or over who is willing to help out people in need, are in a compromised position, or need assistance during this global health pandemic, the City of South San Francisco is here to help and has compiled many resources for their residents during this time of need. www.ssf.net/Coronavirus
Sheri Boles
Community Program Manager City of South San Francisco [email protected]
650-829-6680
Kelli Jo Cullinan
Recreation and Community Services Supervisor Senior Programs-City of South San Francisco
[email protected]
650-829-3822
General Food Assistance for San Mateo County:
Second Harvest Food Bank: If you are not a senior citfzen, but you are experiencing food insecurity in your household, you
can call the Food Connectfon Line at Second Harvest Food Bank at (800) 984-3663 or text "FOOD" to 1-408-455-5181 or
email [email protected].
Jewish Family and Children's Services- The Food Bank and the grocery shopping assistance is open to all. Food can be
delivered through out San Mateo County, except the Coast, for those 60 years and over. Shopping to be paid for by
client with cash, credit card or check. Food bank, limited to items in their bank and is free. JFCS can be reached at
650-931-1860 or email them at [email protected].
Love Your Neighbor Hotline: Those who are unable to get the food and essentfals that they need are invited to call our hot-
line (888) 237-7807 or [email protected].
English webpage: https://sfarch.org/loveyourneighbor
Spanish webpage: https://sfarchdiocese.org/amaatuprojimo
Self Help for the Elderly- Call to speak with a team member about meals in Millbrae or San Mateo: (415) 677-7600.
Grocery Stores and More that Have Hours for Older Adults
City of South San Francisco larger grocery stores: https://www.ssf.net/home/showdocument?id=19154
Bay Area stores that have “Senior Hours”: https://sf.funcheap.com/city-guide/grocery-store-senior-hour/
We are accepting 2020 newsletter subscriptions.
The cost is $10 per year for subscribers. Please fill
out this form and mail it back to us with a check
payable to: City of South San Francisco Senior
Services:
SSF Senior Connections Newsletter
33 Arroyo, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Name ________________________
Telephone ________________________
Address
Street ________________________
City ________________________
Zip ________________________
Newsletter Subscription
Support Services & Information
Special Edition
Due to the current COVID-19 Shelter in Place Order, many community organizations have made changes to
their services, hours and staffing. These resources are current as of the time of this newsletter being updated. Please call ahead or visit a program's website for more information. Updated as of 4/14/2020.
Benefits:
Social Security National: 1-800-772-1213
(TTY 1-800-325-0778)
https://www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/
Field Office Locator
https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp
Caregivers Resources for Those Caring for Older
Adults, Adults with Disabilities Impacted by
COVID-19
Institute on Aging Services: 415-750-4111
https://www.ioaging.org/services
San Mateo County In-Home Support Services (IHSS) Eligi-
bility and Applicatfon Aging and Adult Services Hotline 1-
800-675-8437
https://www.smchealth.org/home-supportfve-services
Caregiving
San Mateo County Public Authority for In-Home Sup-
portive Services (IHSS) 650-372-6507
https://www.smchealth.org/public-authority
Family Caregiver Alliance 800-445-8106 toll-free
415-434-3388 local
https://www.caregiver.org/
Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
https://www.alz.org/
COVID-19 Information- San Mateo County
San Mateo County services and information on COVID-19
https://www.smcgov.org/
San Mateo County Health COVID-19 Call Center: Available
24/7
For informatfon and referral for health and human services or
for non-medical questfons about COVID-19, contact 211 at: 2-1
-1- (or 1-800-273-6222) or text your zip code to: 898211.
https://www.smchealth.org/coronavirus
Social Distancing Video (Available in English, Chinese and
Spanish)
https://www.smchealth.org/pod/video-social-distancing
San Mateo County services and information on COVID-19
https://www.smcgov.org/
Questions about Social Distancing
https://www.smchealth.org/sites/main/files/file-attachments/
smc_health_-_social_distancing_040320_final_0.pdf Connect with Others:
Friendship Line
The Friendship line provides counseling and support to
older adults and adults living with disabilitfes in both crisis
and non-urgent situatfons.
1-800–971–0016
www.ioaging.org/services/friendship-line
Peninsula Family Service Senior Peer Counseling
(650) 403-4300 ext.4322
https://www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/our-programs/
older-adult-services/seniorpeercounseling/
Well Connected: a community made up of partfcipants,
staff, facilitators, presenters, and other volunteers who care
about each other and who value being connected. All
groups are accessible by phone from wherever you are at
no cost to you. To register f you’re ready to register, call
(877) 797-7299, or [email protected]
https://covia.org/services/well-connected/
Employment/Unemployment Resources
Employee Rights: Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/
FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf
Employment Opportunities: San Mateo County Public Authority for
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
650 372-8507
https://www.smchealth.org/contact/become-caregiver
Peninsula Family Service Financial Empowerment https://
www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/our-programs/financial-
empowerment/
State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)
https://edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/Filing_a_Claim.htm
Financial Support
Core Service Agencies
https://hsa.smcgov.org/core-service-agencies-emergency-safety
-net-assistance
6
Connect with Others (continued):
Peninsula Health Care District-Older Adult Resource Line
All those 60+ in San Mateo County can stay connected to
resources and services during this tfme of “sheltering in place”.
An experienced professional support team will be able to
connect you to a wide range of community resources including
food services. The Adult Resource Line is open Monday-Friday,
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Please call 1-650-780-7542.
Housing:
HIP HOUSING:HIP provides referrals for Shared Housing
Optfons & Home Equity Conversions Call 650-348-6660.
By appointment only.
County of San Mateo Department of Housing:
https://housing.smcgov.org/
COVID-19 San Mateo County Eviction Regulations:
https://housing.smcgov.org/covid-19-smc-evictfon-
regulatfons
Office of Governor Gavin Newsom 90 Day Grace Period on
Mortgage Payments:
https://www.gov.ca.gov/
Pet Care
Peninsula Humane Society Making a plan for your pet and
pet food bank 650-988-5280
https://phs-spca.org/covid19/
Phone Lines
Aging and Adult Services Hotline- San Mateo County’s 24-
hour informatfon and emergency response line. It helps older
adults, people with disabilitfes, dependent adults, and caregiv-
ers access the services they need to keep them safe. The hot-
line is staffed by knowledgeable and experienced social work-
ers and public health nurses. (800) 675-8437
https://www.smchealth.org/contact/24-hour-emergency-
advice-line
Peninsula Family Service
211- Connects Bay Area residents with health & human service
programs in their local community:
https://www.211bayarea.org/
Prescription Delivery
CVS- Must sign up for text alerts or download app to be notffied
of delivery optfons: cvs.com/content/delivery
https://www.cvs.com/content/delivery
NOWRX Free delivery within 5 hours of receiving prescriptfon
from South San Francisco to North San Jose. No signature
required at delivery with the exceptfon of controlled
substances. (650) 386-5761 or www.nowrx.com.
Walgreens- Sign up for text alerts and then chose delivery
optfon
https://www.walgreens.com/topic/pharmacy/walgreens-
express.jsp
Scams:
Aging and Adult Services Adult Protective Services:
https://www.smchealth.org/aging-and-adult-services-
protectfon
County of San Mateo District Attorney Illegal Price Gouging
During COVID-19 Emergency:
https://da.smcgov.org/price-gouging-covid-19
The United States Department of Justice Coronavirus (COVID-
19):
https://www.justfce.gov/coronavirus
Stress and Coping:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/
managing-stress-anxiety.html
Institute on Aging Friendship Line Toll Free:
1-800-971-0016
www.ioaging.org/services/friendship-line
Peninsula Health Care District-Older Adult Resource Line
All those 60+ in San Mateo County can stay connected to
resources and services during this tfme of “sheltering in
place”. An experienced professional support team will be
able to connect you to a wide range of community resources
including food services. The Adult Resource Line is open
Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Please call 1-650-780-
7542.
Star Vista Main office: 650-591-9623
https://star-vista.org/
Support Services & Information
Special Edition
7
Tax Preparation
VITA through the United Way is preparing taxes using Zoom
Video Conferencing. You can find the information at:
https://earnitkeepitsaveit.org/
AARP
The IRS has pushed the tax deadline to July 15th.
https://secure.aarp.org/applicatfons/VMISLocator/
searchTaxAideLocatfons.actfon
www.aarp.org/taxaide
Or call AARP Foundation 888-227-7669
Staying connected with Zoom
during Shelter in Place
Since the shelter in place order in San Mateo County, many San Mateo residents have been using an app called Zoom to stay
connected to friends and family. What is Zoom and why should we use it? Zoom is an app that allows people from different
platiorms to have face-to-face communicatfons. This means that you can connect using a cellphone, tablet, laptop or desk-
top. You are not restricted by the type of computer you use, or the operatfng system; this has been the problem with older
apps such as Skype or Android Face Time.
Getting Started!
Getting started with Zoom is easy. Simply download the free app onto your device. For
smart phones, you can find it on the Apple Store or Google Play depending on your ser-
vice. Once you install the app, you will be asked to register. If you already have a Face-
book or Google account, you can use that to register for Zoom.
Starting and Joining Meetings
Once you do that, you will see another screen, click on the “Invite”
button. You will be asked how you will contact your invitees; you can
select instant messaging or e-mail. Select who you want to invite. They
will receive a URL that they need to click on.
Now, you need to go back to your “Partfcipants” window to accept your
invitee. Now, you can go back to your main Zoom window and have your
meetfng!
Joining a meeting is much simpler, the host will send you an URL link
that they created and you simply click on this link.
After you log in, you will
be given the optfon of
startfng or joining a
meetfng. If you want to
start a meetfng with your
friends or family, simply
click on the “New
Meetfng” button.
Your meetfng will start, but
you’ll be the only one
there! You will need to
invite others by clicking the
“Partfcipants” button at the
bottom, this will open up a
new window.
Zoom has many more features to explore! You can schedule meetfngs for future dates, you can share links, photos, and vid-
eos. You can even have up to 25 people at once talking to each other face to face. The nice thing about Zoom is that it
works with all platiorms and is easy to use if you are just joining a meetfng. Give it a try and use it to stay in touch or reach
out to the community.
8
9
Riddles to ponder….
I know many of you like to solve our weekly riddles at Magnolia Center.
Here are some riddles for you to enjoy while the Center remains closed.
The answers are at the bottom.
Q1: If you drop a yellow hat in the Red Sea, what does it become?
Q2: Why is the moon like a dollar?
Q3: Can you name three things that have eyes but cannot see?
Q4: 10 birds are sitting on a branch. A hunter shoots 5 of them, how many are left?
Q5: What runs in and out of town all day? A1: It becomes wet. A2: Because it has four quarters. A3: Needles, potatoes, and storms. A4: None, because the rest flew away. A5: A Road. Rebus Puzzles….
A rebus is a visual puzzle that where you have to figure out the meaning by looking at the words. For example: [FACE]
would be “Red in the Face”. Can you figure out the rebus puzzles below? The answers are at the bottom.
BUR
Thumbs Thumbs Thumbs Thumbs Thumbs Thumbs Thumbs
TEEF FEET TEEF
poFISHnd 1. Back Rub 2. All Thumbs 3.Two left feet 4. Big fish in a small pond 5.Too funny for words 6. One in a Million 7. Small Potatoes 8. The birds and the bees. Funny Funny
Words words
Words words
MilONElion
Potatoes potatoes potatoes
potatoes potatoes potatoes
B Birds B Birds B Birds
B Birds B Birds B Birds
ANSWERS:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Boggle! T A P O
E N E R
D S T A
I G H C
I M N C
H D A T
E F L O
B S P A
1_ANT_____ 5___________
2__________ 6___________
3__________ 7___________
4__________ 8___________
9__________ 10__________
1__________ 5___________
2__________ 6___________
3__________ 7___________
4__________ 8___________
9__________ 10__________
Boggle is a fun word game where you
try to see how many words you can find
hidden in the grids. Words can go up
and down, left and right, and diagonal.
For example on chart one, you can
make the word “ANT” by selectfng “A”,
“N”, and “T”. How many words can you
find in each puzzle?
Set 1 Set 2
South San Francisco Senior Services
P.O. Box 711
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Magnolia Center
Senior Services Information
Magnolia Center/Adult Day Care/MSB
(650) 829-3822
[email protected]
Contact Us
Magnolia Center pictured above.
Websites:
https://www.ssf.net/
https://www.ssf.net/seniors
https://www.ssf.net/virtualrec
South San Francisco All City Virtual Town Hall
The City of South San Francisco will be having an All City Virtual Town Hall on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. These town hall
meetfngs strive to give our citfzens and SSF community the most current informatfon and it is also a tfme for anyone to ask questfons.
Mayor Garbarino, City Manager Futrell, and other City Administrators are on hand to answer questfons that you may have or that
come up during the meetfng. Below is the informatfon on how to register and take part in the All City Virtual Town Hall.
Please register for All City Virtual Town Hall on May 21, 2020 6:00 PM PDT at:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1854498290790375435
After registering, you will receive a confirmatfon email containing informatfon about joining the webinar.
Audio:
Partfcipants can use their telephone or computer mic & speakers (VoIP).
UNITED STATES Toll Free
1 877 309 2074
Access Code:
500-163-523
Live, age-specific sessions twice per week
Sessions led by Junior Giants AmeriCorps Ambassadors
Featuring skills & drills videos made especially for Junior Giants
25-35 minute team-style sessions that focus on:
SPRING SEASON RUNS MAY 11 – JUNE 6 | AGES 5-18
(Specific session times dependent on league location
and player age)
by Giants Manager Gabe Kapler and his coaching staff
o Physical activity & nutrition
o Baseball skills & drills
o Reading
o Junior Giants Four Bases of Character Development:
Leadership, Teamwork Confidence and Integrity
o Bullying Prevention
A FREE VIRTUAL SEASON
THAT BRINGS THE
FUN OF THE FIELD TO YOUR HOME!
DURING THE 4-WEEK SEASON, JUNIOR GIANTS ARE INTRODUCED TO THE FUNDAMENTALS OF THE
GAME ALONG WITH IMPORTANT LESSONS IN HEALTH, EDUCATION AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT.